Bethany Thompson
Musician.
Bethany Thompson relishes using music to connect with people, whether through performing or teaching. She earned a doctorate in cello performance from the University of North Carolina Greensboro.
Teacher.
Besides over 20 years of private cello teaching experience, Bethany directs string programs in the juvenile justice system. She also teaches the string program for foster-involved children at New Life Village. Formerly she worked with at-risk children at Boys and Girls Clubs and in public schools, and taught cello, bass, and music theory in the Philippines.
Entertainer.
In addition to orchestral and chamber work, Bethany has been a regular performer in hospitals and prisons. And as a soloist, she has performed over 300 solo cello programs that mesh diverse music and storytelling for an entertaining and unique experience. Bethany has also performed in the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Australia.
Researcher.
Bethany's research on the benefits of music for youth in detention has been published in the String Research Journal and presented at the International Society of Music Educator's 2021 conference.
MUSIC WITH VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
Do you want to make a difference?
Using music as a tool to make a difference in vulnerable and underserved populations is Bethany's passion. She directs music programs with teens involved in the juvenile justice system and with foster-involved children. You can be involved!
Services
From engaging and fun cello concerts to beautiful background music for weddings and events to personalized cello lessons, find out more about what Bethany has to offer!
Are you looking for...
A fun and engaging cello concert?
Bethany's concerts include a wide range of music spanning classical, fiddle, popular, Broadway, and movie music genres so that there is something for everyone! She tells the stories of the personalities and events behind the music throughout the program, combining narrative with music to make a warm, interactive, accessible, and fun experience. Bethany has performed over 300 of these concerts in four states. Contact her to book one today!
Cello music for your wedding?
Imagine your special day with cello music for your ceremony or reception to create the atmosphere you've been looking for!
Background music for your next special event?
The cello has a beautiful sound that will make your event stand out and create the ambience to take it to the next level.
Cello lessons?
Are you looking for lessons for your child or are you interested in learning the cello yourself? Bethany has been teaching the cello for over 20 years to students of all ages!
A speaker for your next event?
Bethany loves to share about the impact of musical involvement for vulnerable young people, especially teens detained in the juvenile justice system.
Testimonials
“This [program] has been a tremendous help . . . and it has been great and refreshing for me, as well as for the campus, to experience this . . . We have gained such momentum, you know. Now I’m going to say your program is recognized around the state. . . I get calls and emails all the time because people need to see this... [Your program's] momentum is building success for these kids.”
C. Dingle, former director of Chatham Youth Development Center
Testimonials
“Congrats on the nice article and the youtube video is really cool. As you know, I think the most basic and exciting connection to music for kids (especially kids who need an outlet) is for them to create - doesn't matter the genre. So really really great for you to be doing this and seeing your success pay off. I can't think of another program anywhere like this (kids playing and composing on string instruments in a detention setting)."
M. Hickey, Associate Professor Emerita of Music Education at Northwestern University
Testimonials
“What an inspiration you are to all of us! Through music we try to make a difference. You are making a difference! Congratulations!”
Lynn Harrell, late cellist
Testimonials
“Chatham Strings is made up of students from the Chatham Youth Development Center. This program was developed by Bethany and has played in several places over the last year. Very impressive and important program. Actually difficult not to get more than a little misty-eyed at the thought of what this program means to and for the students.”
D. AsKew, late Director of the University of North Carolina Greensboro School of Music
Testimonials
“Thank you so much for the wonderful performance on Friday. You are truly doing a great job with our students.”
P. Jones, principal at Chatham Youth Development Center
